As the United States continues to fight the longest war in our nation’s history, thousands of wounded warriors, Veterans and their families are dealing with a myriad of physical, emotional and financial issues as they transition back to life at home.  The private and public sectors have responded with overwhelming support and action.  Hundreds of new non-governmental organizations have sprung up in response to the unique needs of wounded warriors and Veterans.  How does a wounded warrior or Veteran navigate this “Sea of Goodwill?”

One option available is the National Resource Directory. A collaboration of the Departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs, the National Resource Directory, or NRD, is a free online tool designed to empower wounded warriors, Veterans, their families and others who support them with access to more than 11,000 resources at the national, state and local levels.

The National Resource Directory leverages the tremendous local support alive in our communities today by featuring resources from organizations in both government and non-government sectors.  However, to be listed on the National Resource Directory, non-governmental organizations must follow a participation policy based on relevance and appropriateness.  Submissions are reviewed by a team of Veterans and subject matter experts to ensure quality resources are available to our wounded warriors and Veterans.  Reintegration back to civilian life is complex and sometimes challenging – our goal with the NRD is to reduce time spent looking for answers about key aspects of transition like education, employment, healthcare, mentorship, housing, and family support.

We encourage you to get involved, speak up and welcome wounded warriors and Veterans home with high quality support services.

Here are some great ways to stay informed about new resources in your community:

1)    Sign up to receive weekly e-mail updates from the NRD.

2)    Become a Facebook fan to read our latest news and share resources or feedback.

3)    Check out information by state or territory – if you know of resources to add, let us know.

Visit today: www.NationalResourceDirectory.gov

This post was authored by Dr. Karen Guice.  Dr. Karen Guice is the Executive Director of the Veterans Affairs Federal Recovery Coordination Program.